During the Euro 2024 qualifier between Belgium and Sweden in Brussels, the match was halted due to the shooting of two Swedish fans near the stadium.
Players from both teams chose not to return for the second half after hearing the news.
The match was tied at 1-1 when it stopped. Belgium had already qualified for the Euro 2024 tournament. Meanwhile, Sweden had no chance of moving ahead in Group F.
Swedish fans at the stadium were told to stay put. Two hours later, police escorted them out.
UEFA then confirmed the game’s suspension. They said they made the decision after talking to both teams and the police.
Swedish fans in Brussels showed their shock. One fan, Pernilla Califf, said she was changing out of her Swedish jersey into neutral clothes.
A man named Abdesalem Al Guiliani claimed the attack in a video. He said he was part of a terrorist group. Because of this, Belgium raised its terror alert level to the highest.
Belgian Prime Minister Alexander de Croo confirmed the victims were Swedish. He also sent his condolences to Sweden’s Prime Minister.
He added that both countries would fight against terrorism together.
The investigation is still going on. Authorities are staying alert as they try to understand the situation fully.
Background
This is not the first time a soccer match has been disrupted due to security concerns.
In 2015, a friendly match between Germany and the Netherlands was canceled in Hanover due to a terror threat.
Similarly, in 2016, Belgium’s friendly match against Spain was called off because of heightened security alerts following terror attacks.
Soccer events have always been considered high-risk targets. This is due to the large crowds they attract and the global attention they receive.
Both Belgium and Sweden have been on alert for potential security issues, especially during such high-profile events.
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